Iran and the Escalating Wars
“War is a crime against humanity” – a declaration shared by all of War Resisters’ International (hand lettering by Liz McAlister)
No justification can legitimize bombardments that disregard human life, and it seems as though little coherent explanation has even been attempted – this is war for the sake of war. No strategic calculation can excuse the transformation of entire regions into war zones. What must be done today is clear and urgent: the war must end, the bombardments must cease, civilians must be protected, international law must be upheld, and all parties must commit to dialogue rather than destruction.
– War Resisters’ International, March 1, 2026 (read full statement here)
As with all wars, we encourage nonviolent action as a method of opposition and resistance. WRL encourages countering the recruitment of youth into the armed forces, supporting military resisters and tax resistance. WRL’s history of opposition to war with Iran is clear.
History shows us that nonviolent actions by unarmed civilians is the most effective method to replace an authoritarian regime. Bombing another country and assassinating their leaders does not encourage people to organize a popular uprising to seize control of their government.
We also share statements from some of our allies:
Take Action
Nonviolent Action
- Planning Nonviolent Campaigns – Exercises + handouts
- Organizing Effective Actions – Steps to organize nonviolent direct actions
- Trainings for Nonviolent Action – Agendas, Trainers + Trainings
- Nonviolence 101 – WRL’s updated brochure on nonviolence – what it is and how to use it – and deeper information on its impact
- Safety Prep for Protests – Be prepared before, during, after a protest. Posts curated or created by the Nonviolent Peaceforce.
- Find a local coalition you can join.
READ MORE ABOUT NONVIOLENT ACTION
Know Your Rights
- Know Your Risks – National Lawyers Guild
- Know Your Rights: Protesters Rights – American Civil Liberties Union
Counter Military recruitment
Warn youth that the military is not just a job
“Would you be willing to participate in actions that could cause the loss of many innocent lives?”
“Will you risk your life for endless wars?”
A recent update of our palm card Questions to Consider for youth considering the military includes questions about participating in endless wars and deportations.
We have other resources for counter-recruitment at our online store and web page.
Support GI Resistance
Remind troops they can refuse illegal orders
GI Rights Hotline – Military Discharges and Military Counseling | Call 1-877-447-4487; Find factsheets and sections on Discharges, AWOL or UA from Active Duty, Conscientious Objection, Rights, Grievances, and Complaints, Before You Join, FAQs and more
About Face veterans have a Veterans Against War on Iran Action Kit and a military support request form, all information is confidential.
War Tax Resistance
To respond to the upswell in interest, the National War Tax Resistance Coordinating Committee (NWTRCC) has organized a series of workshops. Watch War Tax Resistance 101 on YouTube. Additional information is on their website NWTRCC.org. You can also follow them at: facebook.com/nwtrcc instagram.com/wartaxresister tiktok.com/@wartaxresister
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